Mark H Smith Designs Inc.

A nightmare dealing with Mark. I do not recommend anyone to seek his services. He is a Chameleon.

I am a trades-man/homeowner, I renovated a second apartment unit in my basement and someone called the municipality as I was completing the work, since the city became involved I needed to reach out to a designer who could prepare a set of plans of the existing house and work done in order to apply for a permit and bring the property in line with the city bylaws.

Mark was recommended to me by a structural engineer and once we talked over the phone, and explained the above details and overall project, he agreed to come to Innisfil, On. From Toronto to met with me, see the house, and see the work done, followed by his proposal and contract, early last July.

Always understanding that walls, floor and ceilings would likely need to be open in some areas to allow inspections and reveal all the work done.

At 1st I was delighted to see the level of detail and his professional approach when reading his contract, I felt very confident he would be thorough as attention to detail is very important for me as well.

After signing with him, and paying the 50% deposit, he again came to Innisfil to do the measurements for the whole house. However after some time and very little to show for, Mark decided to quit on me, claiming ridiculous and baseless excuses, and although I tried to be the mature party and see him as a son, and tried to plead with him multiple times and give him all the opportunities to complete the plans, tried to reason with him by phone and email, with multiple back and forth responses, always treating him with the outmost respect, at the end he decided to treat me with absolute derision and disdain, and try and strong arm me into comply to absurd draconian demands putting me in a position of "his way or the highway"

As it stands Mark did not deliver the plans as promised, was paid in advance 50% of the cost of the contract, has serious problems owning to his mistakes, an absolute lack of sympathy, remorse and a 'better than you attitude'

Extremely disappointed and disgusted.

He has waisted my time and money which is tight, and I will be seeking legal remedy for his actions.

Buyer be ware.

Sep. 7th Update: Mr. Smith will be served with an action lawsuit for gross abuse of trust and misleading representations. We will also be reaching out to the The Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing that oversees BCIN designers to try and remove this person from practicing design. People like this should not be entrusted with our financial future and peace of mind.

Mark was great to work with, very detailed and able to facilitate design discussions and help us navigate the design and permit process in Toronto.

We worked with Mark on the redesign of our front porch and walkway to a fully-covered entranceway. Marks experience as a designer, as well as his familiarity with the City of Toronto permitting process, made everything easy for us. From the outset, Mark met with us in person to see the space, and asked insightful questions that made us consider all aspects of the project. Throughout the design iteration process, Mark was very patient with our questions and revision requests, and we were very happy with the final design. He liaised effectively with engineers to finalize the structural drawings, and maintained strong and clear communication with us throughout the process, despite some delays that were out of his control. He submitted everything to the City on our behalf, and his knowledge of the City permitting process allowed us to receive our permit within a very short time after it was submitted. Overall we are very happy with Mark and would recommend him to anyone seeking a knowledgeable guide through a design and permitting process.

A huge thank you to Mark for taking the time to research our proposed project and give us sage advice on its feasibility. He put in time and effort without being on contract with us and we are grateful to him for sharing his knowledge and expertise. We would definitely want to work with him on future projects, even as we are not able to move forward on this one. Top notch!

Mark helped turn our cluttered thoughts into permit ready drawings necessary to convert an existing one bedroom unit into a legal, two bedroom second suite. His attention to detail, and open, honest approach made him a pleasure to work with. We've already spoken to him about our next project

Mark helped us to re-imagine our bungalow. From the first meeting Mark focused on getting to know us, our immediate and future needs and wishes. He has been very collaborative, communicative, and transparent through the whole process.

He helped us to navigate challenges that came up during construction and offered sound advice. His attention to detail and knowledge of city building code and processes was a critical skill set we relied heavily upon to get permits approved. We are very happy with Mark's work, appreciate for the care he gave to our project.

I engaged Mark to help design a backyard extension and obtain the building permit.

He is professional, communicates well and answers questions promptly and thoroughly. I never felt that I was taking up too much of his time. He recommended other professionals at my request but I never felt pressured to use any of his contacts. Mark is a pleasure to deal with and I recommend him without hesitation.

You can stop looking elsewhere. Just hire Mark.

Mark was engaged by our construction company to provide initial design concepts and ultimately submit final design plans to the City of Toronto for building permit approval. From the first consult to the final delivery of the permits, Mark was a pleasure to work with. He took the time needed to get to know our clients and to understand their vision for their kitchen renovation. His attention to detail is unmatched. We are now poised to begin construction with permits and drawings needed to engage electrical, framing and structural trades. We confidently recommend Mark for all of your design and permit application needs.

Mark simplified a very complicated rear project at our home and made the process efficient, smooth and professional. He had strong suggestions that added great value to our property and we are very satisfied working with him & look forward to future projects.

Mark's advice and guidance (from conception to permit application, follow up and completion) was invaluable. My first attempt to navigate the City of Toronto by-laws for the demolition of our garage and fence building was confusing, frustrating and time consuming. After connecting with Mark, things became infinitely easier. He visited the site, patiently answered our many questions, made helpful strategic suggestions, prepared the permit application and forms (complete with professional drawings), followed up with the City regarding their questions of clarification, keeping us informed at every step of the way. His work saved us countless hours and headaches. It was worth every penny.